Business Manager

Job Purpose

The Business Manager will play a key role in the effective day-to-day management of Compass Skills Training, ensuring that financial, HR, administrative and operational functions are delivered efficiently and in line with organisational objectives. The postholder will be responsible for overseeing business support services, managing office operations, supporting strategic planning, and leading the administration team to ensure the smooth running of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Management

· Manage the organisation's day-to-day financial operations.

· Process invoices, payments and supplier accounts.

· Monitor cash flow and expenditure to ensure financial sustainability.

· Liaise with external accountants, auditors and funding bodies as required.

· Ensure financial records are accurate and maintained in accordance with statutory requirements.

· Support Directors with financial planning and business decision-making.

· Monitor contract income, funding streams and expenditure against budgets.

Human Resources

· Manage and coordinate HR processes and procedures.

· Support recruitment, onboarding and induction of new staff.

· Maintain employee records and ensure compliance with GDPR and employment legislation.

· Manage sickness absence, annual leave and staff welfare records.

· Coordinate staff training, development and appraisal processes.

· Review and update HR policies and procedures in line with current legislation.

· Support employee engagement and wellbeing initiatives.

· Line Management Responsibilities

· Directly manage and supervise the administration team.

· Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and performance reviews.

· Set objectives and monitor individual and team performance.

· Identify training and development needs within the team.

· Manage workloads to ensure efficient and effective administration support across the organisation.

· Foster a positive, professional and collaborative working environment.

· Address performance, attendance and conduct issues in accordance with company policies.

Office Management

· Ensure appropriate systems, processes and procedures are implemented and maintained.

· Manage office supplies, equipment and service contracts.

· Maintain effective filing, record-keeping and document management systems.

· Act as the main point of contact for office-related issues and service providers.

· Support business continuity and risk management planning.

Business Support and Compliance

· Support the Directors in implementing operational plans.

· Ensure organisational compliance with awarding body, funding and regulatory requirements.

· Maintain policies and procedures and support quality assurance activities.

· Produce reports and management information to support decision-making.

· Coordinate business improvement initiatives and process reviews.

· Support inspections, audits and external quality assurance activities.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications and Experience

· Relevant qualification in Business Management, Finance, HR or a related field.

· Experience in business, office or operations management.

· Experience of managing budgets and financial processes.

· Experience of HR administration and employee relations.

· Previous line management experience.

· Excellent administrative and organisational skills.

· Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.

Essential Skills and Knowledge

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

· Strong financial awareness and analytical skills.

· Knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practice.

· Ability to work independently and use initiative.

· High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.

· Strong leadership and team management skills.

Desirable

· Experience within the education, training or skills sector.

· HR or Finance professional qualifications (e.g., CIPD, AAT).

· Experience of quality assurance and audit processes.

Key Attributes

· Professional and approachable.

· Proactive and solution-focused.

· Highly organised and efficient.

· Trustworthy and able to maintain confidentiality.

· Flexible and adaptable in response to organisational needs.

This role is crucial to ensuring the efficient operation of Compass Skills Training and supporting the organisation's continued growth, compliance and success.

Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chorley (Lancashire)